Mountain Equipment Co-op, Toronto, Ontario

Directed by the members, MEC fulfills its core purpose – to help people enjoy the benefits of self-propelled wilderness-oriented recreation. We do that by selling outdoor gear, clothing, and services.

Our Co-op
A co-operative is a democratically owned business structure in which members pool their resources to obtain a benefit. At MEC, members use their shared purchasing power to obtain goods and services for outdoor activities. Anyone can join MEC by buying a $5 membership share. Your share allows you to make purchases and vote on how the Co-op is governed.

MEC is the largest retail co-operative in Canada and demonstrates what can be done through collective democratic ownership. Our commitment to green building, community grants, ethical purchasing, product sustainability, and promotion of Canada-wide parks and protected areas demonstrates the best of what business can be in our society.